Impulsively booking plane tickets (again) in the midst of a boring afternoon class, intended as a birthday gift for myself, I embarked on a journey to Albania, from the quaint city of Lyon.
Tirana, once shrouded in the cloak of communism, had undergone a profound transformation, emerging as a vibrant metropolis bursting with life and a kaleidoscope of hues, which I had the pleasure of witnessing.
My arrival in Tirana was fraught with misfortune. As I descended from the plane, brimming with anticipation, the notorious French data provider I happen to be subscribed to, saw fit to scamper away with my euros, leaving me with an unwelcome bill. It was a staggering 50+ euros in exchange for forgetting to turn off my data, shout out to Prixtel, you filthy bunch of scammers. Being in such a situation beyond control , I just hopped on a bus from the airport, unfortunately without any LEKs, which is again, not recommended, meandering through the city's roads.
Hoping to quell my hunger pangs with a satisfying meal, I aimlessly wandered through Rruga Murat Toptani, a pedestrian street adorned with verdant foliage, quaint patios, and inviting cafes. Eventually, I found respite for my famished soul. I was pleasantly surprised by the price I had to pay in the end—less than 15 euros for an entire meal. Indeed, Tirana, unburdened by Schengen inflation, makes it a very friendly choice for backpackers. After eating, I strolled around the picturesque neighborhood. Tirana had cast off its monotonous gray facade, blossoming into a realm of lively festivals, resplendent architecture, exceptional museums, and verdant parks. The city had awakened, revealing its true potential and captivating charm.
I then decided to settle for a while, taking refuge in my 8-euro hostel. There, I found myself among amiable strangers whose destinies had converged in this captivating city. I shared a room with three other travelers who had been ensconced in the city for more than a month already for various reasons such as awaiting job prospects, and extolling the virtues of residing in this affordable haven. Engaging in conversations with these people, I gleaned insights into the heart and soul of Tirana from their perspective. Tirana from their perspective. I told them I would be leaving the next day, and we all agreed that it was not enough time, proven right in no time.
Later on, I embarked on a self-guided walking tour and my steps led me to the pulsating heart of Tirana—Skanderbeg Square. Here, a pantheon of Albanians congregated in the twilight hours, engaging in their cherished xhiro. This expansive square, encircled by majestic mosques, the grand opera house, and stately statues, resonated with the city's vibrant energy. A fascinating sight befell me as water shimmered on the tiled surface, a clever ploy to temper the scorching Albanian sun. Skanderbeg Square, bedecked with expansive lawns, venerable arboreal sentinels, and blossoming flowerbeds, paid homage to the indomitable national hero, Georg Kastriot Skanderbeg, who valiantly thwarted the inexorable advance of the Ottoman Empire. In place of the once-imposing visage of Josef Stalin, stood the resolute Skanderbeg Monument, an emblem of the city's transformative odyssey.
Adjacent to Skanderbeg Square, a treasure trove of Tirana's landmarks beckoned to be discovered. The National Historical Museum, a veritable repository of the nation's past, the elegant Palace of Culture, the resplendent Et'hem Bey Mosque, the timeless Clock Tower, and the imposing National Library stood as testaments to Tirana's rich cultural heritage. Then seeking solace amidst nature's embrace, I ventured into the enchanting Grand Park. An artificial lake glistened, while a myriad of trees, outdoor workout spaces, and playful gardens breathed life into this verdant oasis Unfortunately, time did not favor my exploration of the Pyramid of Tirana, a structure holding immense historical significance. Once the Enver Hoxha Museum, the pyramid now serves as a venue for exhibitions and conferences, evoking intense debates about its future fate. I could only admire it from afar.
Before heading back to my accommodation, I took a brief detour and stumbled upon Tanners' Bridge, a relic from the 18th-century Ottoman era. This architectural gem, nestled near the Tanners' Mosque, bears witness to the city's historical connections and serves as a picturesque reminder of a bygone era. As I traversed this charming bridge, I marveled at the harmonious fusion of antiquity and modernity, a testament to Tirana's rapid evolution.
And so the day waned, and I retired to my room, savoring once again the memories and experiences that had unfolded the entire day. It was a cold night, but I had a long, restful sleep in my 8-euro bed. The following morning, the rain poured heavily upon the city streets, but I decided to walk to the bus station to have one more glimpse of the greater part of Tirana. I finally bid farewell, my heart brimming with gratitude for yet another enchanting journey I had embarked upon. While some treasures eluded my grasp, such as the intriguing Bunk'Art Museum, I vowed to return to delve deeper into the rich culture that Tirana offers.
